CRAIG SHERIDAN DEAL FIREMAN JAILED FOR SEX OFFENCES AGAINST 14-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN DOVER

In December 2018, Craig Sheridan, a former firefighter from Deal, was sentenced to 26 months in prison after admitting to six charges of engaging in sexual activities with a minor. The court heard that Sheridan was 42 years old at the time the offences occurred. The victim, a 14-year-old girl, had met Sheridan at an event held in Dover. Following their initial meeting, the girl looked him up on Facebook and initiated contact through messaging. As their communication progressed, they arranged to meet again in Dover when she informed him she was 15 years old.

Over the course of 2015, the pair met multiple times in Sheridan’s van, which was equipped with a sofa in the back and curtains, indicating a private space for their meetings. Sheridan, who was employed as a fireman with Kent Fire and Rescue Service, had no prior criminal record or cautions before these incidents came to light.

During the court proceedings, Craig Evans, representing Sheridan, highlighted the personal consequences faced by his client. He stated that Sheridan had lost his job, his reputation, and contact with some members of his family as a result of the case. Evans also mentioned that Sheridan had moved to Kent 18 years earlier to join the fire brigade and was actively involved in charitable work, including fundraising efforts. He described Sheridan as a passionate musician who had produced an album sold for charity purposes.

Judge Rupert Lowe addressed Sheridan directly, condemning his actions. He remarked, “You obviously fancied her which was quite inappropriate given her age and yours. You knew she was a schoolgirl and you knew what you were doing was wrong. This can only be described as grooming. She is not to blame in any way.” The judge also expressed frustration over the delay in bringing Sheridan to justice, criticizing the lack of explanation from the prosecution regarding the time taken to charge and prosecute the case.

Currently residing in Wales, Sheridan was also ordered to pay a surcharge of £170 as part of his sentence. The case underscores the serious nature of grooming and sexual offences involving minors, and the court’s condemnation of Sheridan’s misconduct in this instance.